Forest Hills, Harrisonburg,VA

Forest Hills in Harrisonburg, VA, is a charming neighborhood that offers a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and convenient city access, making it an ideal spot for those relocating to the area. Nestled in the southeast part of the city, Forest Hills is known for its lush greenery, well-maintained streets, and a friendly community atmosphere. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking for a peaceful place to settle, this neighborhood provides a welcoming environment with plenty of space to enjoy outdoor activities and community events.

One of the standout features of Forest Hills is its proximity to several local attractions and amenities. Residents can easily enjoy nearby parks such as Purcell Park, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and sports fields perfect for weekends outdoors. For those who appreciate a lively local scene, the neighborhood is just a short drive from Downtown Harrisonburg, approximately 10-15 minutes away, where you’ll find an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Forest Hills also benefits from being close to some of the city’s best schools and community centers, making it a great choice for families prioritizing education and social activities.

Living in Forest Hills means you don’t have to sacrifice convenience for comfort. The neighborhood’s location in the southeast part of Harrisonburg allows for easy access to major highways, facilitating commutes to work or weekend trips outside the city. Additionally, the community frequently hosts neighborhood gatherings and seasonal celebrations, fostering a strong sense of belonging among residents. For anyone moving to Harrisonburg, Forest Hills offers a wonderful combination of natural beauty, community spirit, and accessibility to the city’s vibrant downtown life.

About 6% of the Forest Hills population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 15% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Forest Hills demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 436 residents, Forest Hills is notably smaller than many other Harrisonburg neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Forest Hills has a population density of 3,371, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Harrisonburg neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With a lower-than-average age of 21, you're likely to find a noticeably youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. This younger population brings a dynamic mix of activity, innovation, and community involvement, shaping a neighborhood that feels lively, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity — making it an especially appealing choice for younger adults looking for an active and engaging community.

The Forest Hills crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Forest Hills, home prices come in around $442,600, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Forest Hills can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

The median rent is around $1,323, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Forest Hills combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Forest Hills can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.